Description
Warm, gooey, and bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples! This easy crockpot dump cake is the ultimate comfort dessert, topped with golden cake crumble and perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
2 cans apple pie filling (21 oz each)
1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
Grease the inside of your crockpot lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
2 minutes
Spread the apple pie filling evenly on the bottom of the crockpot.
3 minutes
Sprinkle cinnamon over the apples for extra flavor.
1 minute
Evenly pour the dry cake mix over the apples—do not stir.
2 minutes
Drizzle melted butter over the top of the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
2 minutes
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 4 hours, until the topping is golden and cooked through.
2–4 hours
Serve warm directly from the crockpot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
5 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 2–4 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (on HIGH)
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
#AppleDumpCake #CrockpotDesserts #EasyBaking #CozyEats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your crockpot is clean and dry. Lightly grease the entire inner surface with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Open and evenly spread both cans of apple pie filling as your base layer. For enhanced flavor, sprinkle the ground cinnamon directly over the apples. Next, open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it in an even layer over the apples. It is crucial not to stir the mixture at this point. Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much surface area as possible to help it cook into a crumble. Place the lid securely on the crockpot and set it to your chosen setting. Do not open the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and steam.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is best served warm. For the ultimate experience, scoop portions directly from the crockpot into bowls. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm cake and apples. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce makes an excellent topping. For a festive touch, sprinkle with chopped pecans or a pinch of extra cinnamon before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary: grease the crockpot, layer apple pie filling and cinnamon, top evenly with dry cake mix, drizzle thoroughly with melted butter (no stirring), and cook covered on High for 2 hours or Low for 4 hours. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely. Substitute about 4-5 cups of homemade filling. Ensure it’s not too watery to prevent a soggy topping.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes. Spice cake or butter pecan cake mix are delicious alternatives that pair wonderfully with apples.
Why is my topping still powdery after cooking?
This usually means the butter wasn’t drizzled evenly. Before cooking, use a fork to gently poke areas where butter may have pooled to help it distribute.
Can I add other fruits?
You can. Try cherry pie filling or a mix of peaches and apples. Adjust cooking times may vary slightly with juicier fruits.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Stirring the Layers: Combining the cake mix with the apples creates a dense, doughy texture instead of a crumbly topping.
- Uneven Butter Distribution: Leaving dry patches of cake mix results in an uncooked, floury texture. Drizzle slowly and thoroughly.
- Opening the Lid During Cooking: This significantly drops the temperature and adds excess moisture, leading to extended cook times and steaminess.
- Using a Cold Crockpot: For best results, add ingredients to a crockpot at room temperature, not straight from a cold cabinet.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Apple Dump Cake is the epitome of effortless comfort food. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it delivers a decadent, warm dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The magic lies in the layering technique, which creates a delightful contrast between the spiced, gooey apples and the golden cake crumble. Remember the key tips: don’t stir, distribute the butter well, and resist peeking. Serve it warm with ice cream for a truly unforgettable treat that everyone will love.